Ondo APC primary: Enikuomehin throws weight behind Olusola Oke

Benson Enikuomehin, a lawyer and former Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) representative for Ondo state, says Olusola Oke is the most qualified governorship aspirant in the forthcoming All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election.

The Ondo APC governorship primary is scheduled for April 20, while the state election will be held on November 16.

Speaking during a press conference on Thursday, Enikuomehin emphasised the importance of selecting the right candidate, stating that “opting for a different aspirant could jeopardize the APC’s chances of winning the forthcoming election”.

He noted that if he were contesting as the flagbearer of the APC, he would easily drop out of the race for Oke, whom he claimed surpasses other aspirants in experience and technical know-how. 

Enikuomehin urged stakeholders and members of Ondo APC to consider Oke, highlighting Ilaje’s unique position as the only LGA that qualifies Ondo as an oil-producing state.

“The Ondo south members are yearning for their eight years of unbroken leadership. They are willing to vote against any political party that short-changes them,” Enikuomehin said.

“Therefore, I wish that APC will look at its house and look at it well and see what they can do in order not to undermine Ondo south because the population of Ondo south is thick and can be enormous. The central part has the higher percentage but Ondo south is not to be undermined at all.”

The lawyer also noted that the Ilajes must not approach the governorship election as a matter of pride but rather with appeal, dialogue and persuasion.

While acknowledging that the incumbent governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, is Ilaje, Enikuomehin stressed that the term limit legislation will prevent him from running for a second term having taking over leadership of Ondo due to the death of the elected governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, in 2023. 

Enikuomehin condemned a recent declaration of support for Ayedatiwa by “APC Aborigine”, noting that none of them is part of the forty-five members of the council of elders in Ondo state and, as such, lacks authority.

Enikuomehin also said he would support any aspirant who emerges as the APC candidate.

“If you are unable to book the first-class section for a plane trip, you will settle for the economy class. The ultimate goal is to arrive at your destination,” he said.